Joelson advises ADB Safegate on acquisition of Ultra Airport Systems

The transaction will strengthen ADB Safegate’s data analytics capabilities and drive the provider’s transformation in becoming a Total Airport Management (TAM) solutions provider. With air traffic doubling every 15 years, the need for aircraft solution providers to use existing infrastructure more efficiently is growing. Achieving TAM status will allow ADB Safegate to operate as a performance-based provider, achieving greater integration of systems across the airports it serves.

The acquisition will enable ADB Safegate to develop a customer-centric proposition using advanced data analytics – a capability not widely deployed in the aviation sector at present. This renders the transaction a significant one not just in expanding ADB Safegate’s own capabilities, but also for the aviation sector more broadly.

Joelson’s Corporate team, led by partner Phil Hails-Smith, advised ADB Safegate on the landmark transaction. The firm led on the investment terms for the global solutions provider and were instrumental in co-ordinating the sale from a global perspective.

Phil Hails-Smith, Corporate Partner at Joelson, says: “We are proud to have advised ADB Safegate on this acquisition, which represents a significant move in deployment of data analytics in the aviation sector. Allowing ADB Safegate to move closer towards TAM status will significantly enhance its core capabilities as an aircraft solutions provider. We look forward to seeing ADB Safegate develop a sector-leading proposition to take full advantage of the solutions Ultra can offer.”

Christian Onselaere, CEO at ADB Safegate, says: “We are delighted to have worked with the Joelson team on ADB Safegate’s acquisition of Ultra Electronics Airport Systems business. This was our first UK acquisition and the team at Joelson really delivered, working to a tight timetable and co-ordinating all the legal aspects of transaction as well as managing all overseas counsel. Thank you to the whole Joelson team we look forward to continuing to work with you as we grow and develop our business following this acquisition.”

“Joelson helped us at a crucial time in our business as we took on our first investors. They supported us with introductions, useful advice and made handling all the practicalities of relevant transactions very easy. They were friendly and easy to work with as they understand the nature of start-ups. We’ll continue working with them as we continue growing.”